Migraine is a common pathology among the population. It is very disabling for those who suffer from it, negatively affecting the quality of life of patients. It is important to go to a specialist who will study the patient's case and prescribe the most appropriate treatment.
What is migraine?
Migraine is a chronic disease characterized by frequent headaches that occur in the form of crises or pain attacks. It is caused by a neurological disorder.
In some cases, it is considered that this pathology may be caused by a dilation of the arteries that cause pressure in the patient's skull. It is a very disabling pathology, which can significantly affect the patient's quality of life, since it can prevent the performance of daily activities.
Causes of migraine
The causes of migraine are very varied, but they are usually related to changes in certain chemicals in the brain. There are triggering factors that can enhance the appearance of an outbreak in the patient, some of them are sleep disorders or hormonal changes experienced by the patient.
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Request a second medical opinionBesides, Diet is especially important, since certain foods, such as chocolate, cheese or wine, can promote the appearance of pain.. In the cases of migraine patients, environmental factors become relevant, since sudden changes in pressure or temperature can trigger pain.
Migraine symptoms
The most characteristic symptom of a migraine is a severe headache, which usually occurs on one side of the head.. Often, this is a constant throbbing pain, which affects the general condition of the patient.
Many patients may experience nausea or general malaise before the onset of the outbreak. In more severe cases, the patient may experience visual auras, in which they may suffer from visual hallucinations, such as flashing lights or moving lines. Normally, the patient shows excessive sensitivity to light, and needs to remain in a dark and noise-free place.
Types of migraine
Depending on the symptoms and the frequency with which the pain occurs, there are different types of migraine. Firstly, the most common, chronic migraine, in which the pain crisis can be triggered without an apparent cause. It is common for pain to appear after exertion and to be relieved at rest.
Secondly, menstrual migraine is differentiated, which occurs in women and is related to hormonal changes.
Finally, migraine with aura. In which, as explained, the patient may suffer visual alterations and has special sensitivity to light.
Migraine due to cervical problems or muscle tension
The pain caused by migraines originating in the neck is primarily linked to muscular and articular problems in the neck. Overloading the cervical muscles, along with persistent muscle tension or postural problems, can cause pain to radiate to the head, triggering debilitating migraine attacks.
This type of ailment occurs in people with sedentary jobs, those who use screens for extended periods, or those with neck injuries. Treatment includes specialized physiotherapy sessions, osteopathy, and postural re-education, with the aim of reducing muscle tension and improving neck mobility, thus gradually and permanently eliminating migraines.
Migraine related to the menstrual cycle (menstrual migraine)
Migraines related to the menstrual cycle are those that occur recurrently in the days leading up to or during menstruation. Given the sharp drop in estrogen levels, this is considered a neurological trigger for the pain.
It manifests as a more intense, prolonged pain that is less responsive to usual pain relief treatment, which is why a personalized approach is key, one that considers both this pain and hormonal regulation, as well as factors such as sleep, diet, and stress management.
Migraine associated with vision problems
Uncorrected vision problems, such as refractive errors or eye strain, can trigger migraines. Continuous effort to focus, especially when using screens, can lead to neurological overstimulation, which can ultimately cause recurring headaches.
Symptoms such as frontal pressure, eye discomfort, and even blurred vision may occur, making it very valuable to have the appropriate correction provided by an ophthalmological professional to reduce the frequency of attacks.
Migraine related to stress and anxiety
Emotional stress is one of the most common triggers for migraines. When anxiety persists over time, it alters neurotransmitters, increasing muscle tension and paving the way for pain attacks.
This type of migraine appears after periods of high mental or emotional stress and can become chronic if the underlying cause is not addressed. Stress management strategies, along with therapeutic exercise and relaxation techniques, are part of the preventive treatment and rehabilitation for migraines.
Diagnosis of migraine
Once the patient go to the specialist, after having suffered outbreaks of pain. First, a comprehensive study of the patient's medical history will be carried out, paying special attention to the family history of migraine patients.
Secondly, it is usually necessary to perform certain diagnostic tests that allow a complete diagnosis to be made. In this case, it is usually common to perform MRIs, which can help diagnose tumors or nerve lesions, which may be related to pain.
On other occasions, CT scans are performed to rule out the existence of brain lesions that could cause headaches in the patient.
Treatment for migraine
In the case of this pathology, treatment takes on special importance, so that the patient can recover their quality of life. Firstly, with the aim of relieving pain, acute treatment will be prescribed, based on analgesics.
Besides, It is essential that the patient receives preventive treatment that helps reduce blood pressure in the skull. and, therefore, reduce the chances of an outbreak or pain crisis appearing.
In recent years, innovative treatments are being introduced for migraine patients.. For example, botox injection every three months helps control pain. On the other hand, treatment with monoclonal antibodies also offers good results in patients.
Physiotherapy and osteopathy, are very useful treatments for migraine, since they help muscle relaxation and work on postural balance.
Migraine prevention
In most cases, migraine appears at the most unexpected moment. However, there are certain guidelines that can help prevent the appearance of pain outbreaks. In migraine patients, it is really important to prioritize sleep.
The consumption of alcohol and tobacco should be avoided, since they are stimulant substances, which enhance the appearance of pain.. The patient must follow a balanced diet, limiting the consumption of foods such as chocolate or cheese to specific occasions.
Finally, it is useful to use tools that help manage and control stress, such as Pilates, yoga or meditation.
Exercises to relieve migraine pain
When the patient is suffering from a pain flare, performing certain practices can help relieve it. For example, perform relaxation techniques or perform self-massage in the temple area.
Besides, It is important to perform neck stretches, which help release tension and enhance the relaxation of the cervical muscles.
As explained, migraine is a pathology that is very disabling for patients who suffer from it. Diagnosis is of particular importance, as is following certain guidelines that may be useful for pain relief.
